KD0ICG
08-31-2009, 04:26 PM
Which of these two would you pick for a newbies first handheld:rolleyes:
K7JEM
08-31-2009, 04:54 PM
I have had both. They're both good. I prefer the Yaesu.
But pick which one you like. It's like Ford/Chevy/Dodge. A lot has to do with your preferences.
Joe
The first thing to consider, is that the TH-G71A is discontinued. So you will have to buy used.
They are both good radios, but keep in mind that the FT-60R stock battery is 1400MAH and the stock TH-G71A battery is 600MAH. If you buy used, you may have to replace the battery, and they aren't cheap.
The FT-60R is very rugged, and loud when you need it. My favorite HT is the Kenwood TH-F6A, but if I know I am going to be in a noisy environment, I will grab the FT-60R, as it has better/louder audio.
For $190 new, the FT-60R is an excellent HT. I also have a VX-1, VX-2, and VX-5, and they are fun to play with, but the FT-60R is just a rugged workhorse.
After enjoying the audio of the FT-60R, and the simple operation, it broke my habit of buying every new VX that comes out. (6,7,8). No more tiny buttons and speakers for me. :)
For actual operating, as opposed to bells and whistles, the FT-60R is the best HT I have.
You can't go wrong with the FT-60R. It is a bit bigger and heavier then the others, but it works well. If you want smaller, the TH-F6A is an excellent HT with dual receive, but it will cost you another $100.